SDSU beats CSU Bakersfield, continues California winning streak

The Aztecs continued their 31 game winning-streak against teams from California by beating CSU Bakersfield on Wednesday night at Viejas Arena. After losing to Arizona by 1 point in an extremely competitive game, SDSU got back on track with the 72-57 home win. The Aztecs led the Roadrunners by 24 at one point, but did not play their best basketball late in the second half. This was the Aztecs last out of conference match. They begin conference play on Wednesday January 9, 2013 at Fresno State.

The tandem of Chase Tapley and Jamaal Franklin continue to lead the Aztecs. Franklin scored 18 points to go with his game high 12 rebounds, while Tapley scored 14 points. Franklin did have 5 turnovers and discussed it after the game, being very critical of his performance. This dynamic duo will need to continue their strong play as the Aztecs head into conference play.

Winston Shepard is looking more comfortable and effective. Shepard had 11 points and has seemed a lot more effective in the last few games. His passing skills are truly impressive even when it doesn’t show up on the stat sheet. It will be interesting to see how he adapts to the tougher competition the Mountain West Conference brings. His raw skill is obvious and it seems like the coaches are still figuring out how to best integrate him into the game plan.

Coach Steve Fisher continues using his bench heavily. Yet again, nine different players had minutes in double figures. This has been a common theme for the Aztecs this season. It shows how deep a team Fisher has, as well as the coaching staff using out of conference play to figure out the player rotations. This could become even more pronounced as they learn to integrate James Johnson.